Municipality

Sigtuna Municipality – facts, statistics, and insights

Sigtuna Municipality is one of Sweden's most historically interesting locations, known as Sweden's first town and still characterized by its rich cultural heritage environment. With its strategic location near Arlanda Airport, Lake Mälaren, and close to both Stockholm and Uppsala, Sigtuna has developed into an expansive municipality where old meets new. Here, picturesque small-town streets coexist with growing business areas, and residents have access to both scenic natural environments and modern community facilities.

Population and Demographics

Sigtuna has a steadily growing population of just over 50,000 residents. The municipality attracts families, young adults, and seniors, resulting in a diverse age structure. Many appreciate the international atmosphere – not least due to the proximity to Arlanda and the many companies and international schools in the area. Several languages are spoken on the streets, and residents have roots from many parts of the world, contributing to a dynamic and open community climate.

Taxes, Welfare, and Municipal Services

The municipal tax rate in Sigtuna is 19.7%, with a regional tax of 12.38%. The funeral fee is 0.2%, and for members of the Church of Sweden, an additional church fee of 1.03% applies. The total tax burden excluding church fee amounts to 32.08% – somewhat lower than many comparable municipalities in the Stockholm region.

Tax revenues are used to finance preschools, schools, elderly care, social services, culture, and leisure activities. Sigtuna particularly invests in maintaining high quality in schools and childcare, while also working to meet the needs of a growing and diverse population. The municipality faces challenges in keeping pace with population growth and continues to push for expanding services and infrastructure.

Economy and Labor Market

Sigtuna has an unusually strong labor market thanks to Arlanda Airport, Sweden's largest workplace outside the major cities. The airport generates numerous direct and indirect jobs within transportation, logistics, hotels, and services. Besides the airport, there are several business parks and logistics centers in the municipality, providing good opportunities for both highly and less-educated workers to find employment.

The municipality has a vibrant business sector with many small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as a growing tourism industry. However, the area is affected by fluctuations in the airline and tourism sectors, which became evident during the pandemic when many businesses faced significant challenges.

Education and Business

Sigtuna offers a wide range of schools, including international and specialized schools, attracting many families and expatriates. The area also hosts Sigtunastiftelsen and other historic educational institutions that connect the historic with the modern. The municipality actively works to strengthen collaboration between education and industry to prepare young people for the future job market.

Key sectors include logistics, transportation, hotels, and restaurants. The municipality also boasts an attractive business climate, with many companies choosing to establish here due to the proximity to Arlanda and larger markets.

Geography and Attractions

Sigtuna is beautifully situated on the shores of Lake Mälaren and offers both small-town charm and stunning natural experiences. The historic city center with cobblestone streets, ruins, and runestones is a popular destination. Visitors can stroll along the water, experience Sweden's oldest preserved city plan, and visit Sigtuna Museum or St. Olof's Church Ruin.

In addition to Sigtuna town, the municipality includes Märsta and several smaller villages, each with its own character. The area offers a rich leisure life with outdoor swimming, hiking trails, and proximity to nature reserves. Arlanda Airport is not only a gateway to the world but also a symbol of Sigtuna's role as a meeting place through history.

FAQ about Sigtuna Municipality

• How high is the municipal tax in Sigtuna?
  The municipal tax is 19.7%, and the total tax burden excluding church fee amounts to 32.08%.
• What is the tax revenue used for?
  Primarily for education, elderly care, social services, childcare, and infrastructure.
• Who are the biggest employers?
  Arlanda Airport, the municipality itself, as well as companies within logistics, hotels, and services.
• What makes Sigtuna unique?
  The combination of a thousand-year history, an international character, and proximity to Arlanda.